Alex Shillo talks playing at The Paramount, opening for Big Shot Special

Singer-songwriter Alex Shillo sat down and chatted with Digital Journal about his performance at The Paramount, where he opened for Big Shot.

Alex Shillo

Alex Shillo

On playing at The Paramount, Shillo said, "Performing at The Paramount was incredible. Such a great experience. It's a totally different feel to be on a stage of that size where you are a little more removed from the audience (as opposed to smaller clubs). It forces me to try and connect to the listener more and be more engaging as a performer."

For Shillo, it was a great experience opening for headlining act, Billy Joel tribute band Big Shot. "I love opening for Big Shot! I've done it before a few times in the past but this was the first time I brought my full band. They are the best of the best as far as musicians go. Billy Joel is a hero of mine and I listened to the 'River of Dreams' record incessantly growing up. I got to see Billy at The Hartford Civic Center when I was in high school. I never would have imagined then being backstage with the same guys that played that arena and played on some of my favorite records of all time," he said.

On his future plans, he said, "There is a lot happening this spring and summer. I just finished shooting a music video for my single 'Had it All' which will be released by the end of this month. A full-length album will follow shortly afterwards. I am really excited for another track that will be on the album as well, it's called 'Say Goodbye to Home' and I was extremely fortunate to have Mark Rivera perform the sax parts. The name of the Album is Lay it on the Line."

His greatest musical influences are Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, The Beatles and his father."My dad had records with RCA in the 70's and 80's," he said. "Keep an eye out this spring and summer for tour dates in support of my new record, 'Lay it on the Line.' I will be promoting the single 'Had it All' very soon with the release of my new music video. Thank you, and thanks to all who support my music."